I spoke to Dr. Beltre's office and they were very nice and answered all of my questions but are too expensive to have them place a lap band. Once again, I am asking if anyone knows of any surgeons in this area or even out of state but not too far away, who perform lap band at a reasonable price. I am a registered nurse and the thought of going out of the country (especially mexico) for an invasive procedure really scares me. Also, is there any way to get around the requirement of you BMI having to be >40 to qualify. I am self pay so its not like I am trying to qualify for insurance purposes. My bmi is 36.6 but steadily rising as this is the trend for the last 12 years. I am over failed diets and tired of being fat! I really want this done but can not afford the prices I have been quoted in this area. Thanks